best quiet beach resorts in crete

If youre planning on staying in the area for more than a few days in the summer then it makes sense to be out in one of Chanias coastal resorts, to take advantage of beach access and/or parking (which is very difficult in the centre). #14 of 51 hotels in Georgioupolis. Oceanfront Home With Views (7 guests): $325/night. It is an absolute must for visitors to Crete is to complete the walk down the gorge from the Omalos plateau to Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea, at which point tourists sail to the nearby village of Sougia or Hora Sfakion, where they could spend a night or they could catch a coach back to Chania. There are lots of good value hotels in Sitia, though in general decor is a tad dated check Booking.com for prices and availability. If you have a mix of old and young children or value convenience then Stalis is a solid option. Youre most likely to end up here if youre catching a ferry to Kythira or to Gythio on the mainland, or if youre using it as a base to explore the nearby beaches at Balos and Falassarna. The beach is sandy and the sea is calm, though the south coast does get fierce winds at times. listeners: [], Total bliss. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Boasting four stars, rooms are dressed in a traditional style; premium linens complement exposed stone walls and the best suites have terraces with sea views. Heraklion is Cretes capital and the largest city on the island. Agia Roumeli is the most visited village in the area as it forms the exit point for the popular Samaria Gorge hike every day in the summer hundreds pop out of the gorge and onto a ferry to X where they can reconnect with the road system. The coastline between these cities is the busiest and most developed part of the island. The best beach in the area is at Anissaras, this is a 4 kms taxi ride west from Koutouloufari and any taxi driver will know where it is. There are a few tavernas and perhaps the occasional cafe bordering the shallow rocky beach. Also along the main harbour, youll find the stylish Elia Zampeliou Boutique Hotel and the funky Alcanea Boutique Hotel. The best of the rest are: Creta Blue Boutique Hotel & Suites, Villa Ippocampi,Casa Bianca Boutique Hotel,Abaton Island Resort & Spa, Cooks Club. Elounda Gulf Villas provide a free transfer to a private beach club. Georgioupolis Resort Aquapark & Spa offers a unique holiday experience to those that want to enjoy the incomparable Greek Hospitality whilst seeking top quality services in a relaxing environment, excellent gastronomy as well as a . of the rooms, the quality of the beach. Crossing the south of the island is difficult. Although be warned, the walk takes five to seven hours and can be strenuous, especially at the peak of summer. For those who love to explore there are ruins all over the area dating from the Neolithic and Roman periods which, with a bit of tenacity can be uncovered and discovered. But there is also an ecological interest Falassarna is part of the Natura 2000 network due to the extensive array of flora and fauna the area has to offer. Its a perfect romantic destination for couples. Loutro:Porto Loutro On the Hill has the best position with balcony rooms looking out over the bay. Its a 40-minute drive to Rethymno. If you want to explore the culinary, you will have a vast variety of restaurants and amazing coffee shops. Lyttos Mare 5. It is flanked by steep, mountainsides, home to a sizable herd of goats (judging from the clinking of bells) as well as a tepid sea, sheltered by a lush bay. Blue Palace Luxury Collection has views across to Spinalonga, an extensive spa, and direct access to a pebble beach. Beach Life - The property has a private beach area (complete with an open-air cineam in the evenings) - ideal for a quiet beach getaway. It has a slightly scruffy feel but there are two town beaches, an archaeological museum and some excellent restaurants to entertain you. An award winning restaurant, a superb wine list and a well-known spa on site. Transfer time: 50 minutes from Chania International airport. Heraklion is located on the north coast of Crete and is home to the main airport of the island. Mykonos has the best beach clubs (and nightlife). It can be as quiet or as rowdy as you like. Here are the best luxury Crete resorts on the beach. See more photos Add to shortlist. Take a 15-minute walk uphill from the main town and you will find Koutouloufari and Piskopiano, two traditional villages that are increasingly popular for upmarket accommodation options. My favourite was Geropotamos Beach, there is a rather attractive stone arch to the west and, on the east, a freshwater river running directly into the sea. The vibe is family-friendly thanks to its sheltered bay which is lined with a number of traditional tavernas. The architecture of the village looks like it just sprang from a WWII novel, winding streets, brightly painted buildings, plenty of brick and crumbling plaster. If it gets a bit too quiet for you, Diskos is only around the corner, where tented villagers of camping earthy types take up half the beach, and you can buy handmade trinkets from pop-up hippy shops. Its known for its calm waters, and for being a nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. The lush Villa Octo is up in the hills behind the city and sleeps 6 in luxury. The area is also crisscrossed with donkey paths that make it fantastic for walking (its possible to walk to Plaka). #30 Best Value of 32 Crete Luxury Beach Resorts Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection Show prices Enter dates to see prices Some beaches are considered 'insider tips' among locals and tourists and can only be reached on foot, while other beach areas regularly host large numbers of sun-hungry visitors. Explore the surrounding islands or simply lie back and relax. The beaches in this area are all sandy, clean and stretch as far as the eye can see! Dorm rooms are available for the budget traveller at Rethymno Youth Hostel. Parts of it are organised in the summer months though, and it does attract daytrippers. Greece has over 1000 islands of which only 227 are inhabited. It is truly non-commercialised, and we hope it stays that way. 5. See More, A home-away-from-home set in a stunning rural spot with beaches, bars and tavernas a walk away. An adults-only hotel in a converted historic mansion, it has been elegantly restored and has its own hammam. Mar 20 - Mar 21. Luxury highlights: Domes Noruz in Kato Daratsa is the 5* pick beachfront location, private plunge pools and hot tubs are available. Three fine dining restaurants, state of the art spa, private sandy beach. Belvedere Apartments are box fresh and have spa access. The beach is a mix of shingle and sand, and the water is crystal clear and calm. Enjoy the many dining options, good spa and lots of activities - tennis, water sports and nearby nightlife. Transfer time: 30 minutes from Heraklion airport. Suites and private villas have personal pools. If you are a true adventurer take your flashlight and head up to Milatos caves. Transfer time: 1hr 45 minutes from Chania International airport. But what you will find is a collection of properly local eateries, a few small and sandy beaches, and crystal clear water if you want to go for a dip. Dont expect anything in the way of amenities when you get there (its actually a nature reserve and is treated accordingly). Just dont expect to find authentic Crete here. Check out Aspri Petra Apartments or Asterias Village. Except for the blockbuster beaches that attract day trips, its not ideal for beach tourism. If finding tucked-away coves and exploring craggy rocks appeals to you then Milatos a small quaint Crete village may be the place for you. The modern rooms boast private balconies overlooking the bay, gardens or pool. If you can get beyond immediate appearances, it has a likeable vibe there are some excellent museums and a good bar and music scene propped up by the local student population. BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CRETE IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS ($$$) Minos Beach Art Hotel ($$) Miramare Resort & Spa ($) Ikaros Art Hotel FIND AGIOS NIKOLAOS HOTEL DEALS 5. For a mix of the two - great beaches and some nightlife - Paros is perfect. Top attractions and things to do in Chania include: Head west from the main harbour to hit the town beaches Nea Chora is the closest and a 15-minute walk, Chryssi Akti is the nicest. On the beautiful beach of Kolymbari, 20 km from the city of Chania, lies Grand Bay Beach Resort. Whether you are planning a getaway with the family, a couples' escape or a luxury break there is something to suit most tastes and budgets here. The one we are talking about is ideal if youve decided to stay in or near Agios, as its just around the bay. The walk between these two areas is truly stunning, the path along the way is marked with cairns to guide your route thankfully as it is easy to get distracted by the views! The one thing I would highly recommend is getting sea shoes as there are sea urchins on the rocks!! Boat trips to Balos leave from the harbour. See More, This five-star eco hotel overlooks the famous Mirabello Bay in Elounda, Crete. The main town in the region is likeable Agios Nikolaos (or Ag Nik, as its affectionately known), which makes up the quartet of north coast main cities. La Maison Ottomane brings a touch of Ottoman decadence meets modern style. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( (178 reviews) "Very difficult to find in the Dark, as the entrance is down a dark alley, and the sins aren't lit up. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Despite the small size of Falassarna, its a popular spot and has a reputation for being one of the best beaches in Crete. Its perfect for mature couples who dont need excursions and are happy to rent a car to explore the south coast. Coastal perfection. Boasting unspoilt bay views, life plays out on a different tempo here. The famous Preveli Palm Beach with its exotic date palm forest at the end of Kourtaliotiko Gorge is 5km away. Lasithi, the easternmost province of Crete, is home to some of its most luxurious hotels as well as its wildest and most traditional areas. It lacks the sweeping white sand of some of our other suggestions, but it also lacks the footfall, making it ideal for a day trip. The LATO Boutique Hotel is more modern and has harbour views. 17. Plaka is located on the coast on the east of Crete around an hours drive from Heraklion Airport. Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel 4. What was once a small Greek village has now become a cosmopolitan town, with bars, restaurants and hotels surrounding picturesque Lake Voulismeni. It has a pretty setting in the Gulf of Mirabello with waterfront bars encircling a small lake its made for people watching, and there is a cosmopolitan cafe-bar scene. all were excellent and we recommend this hotel with a true "vacation vibe" to all couples wanting a quiet and relaxing vacation on the wonderful beach of Crete". See More, Blue Palace, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, A holistic approach to wellbeing underlies the luxury, Equally swish and perhaps just that little bit smarter the. Glyka Nera is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete and definitely one of the most unspoiled places to visit on the island, with deep blue water and fine white sands. The harbourfront is lined with restaurants and smart boutiques, and the narrow alleys filled with souvenir shops, and the colourful tables and twinkly lights of tavernas vying for your trade. Avli Luxury Apartments are sumptuously decorated and theres a rooftop pool. You cant miss it, its called Youth Hostel Plakias. In certain lights as well, Balos Beach has a hint of pink sand. See More, Luxury beach resort just minutes from Agios Nikolaos. Rethymno Beach is also one of Cretes most important turtle nesting grounds. Sifaka & Gavaladon 5, Old Town, Chania, Crete Island, 73101. Swimmers will prefer the deep water at Episkopi. Top things to see and do in Agios Nikolaos include: Porto Maltese Boutique Estate is Ag Niks most stylish des res, with a waterfront location, courtyard, and sympathetic restoration. Theres an excellent selection of tavernas, and its a short drive to Agios Nikolaos for city delights. Minoa Palace Resort & Spa is another beachfront blockbuster with private pools and daybeds. There are few roads in the area, and some of the villages are accessible only by boat. It has a quiet and authentic atmosphere and a well-sheltered beach its one of the best places in Crete for families with small children. Margarites is located in the very centre of the island of Crete, its an unspoiled village surrounded by the vibrant green hills of the Rethymnon region and is as well known for its picturesque panorama as it is for its extensive pottery trade. Good value rooms and family-run studios abound check rooms and availability on Booking.com. Drive 10 minutes south from Agios Nikolaos for the stunning 5* resort Daios Cove, which has its own beach and private seawater plunge pools. callback: cb The beach of Myrtos is a hidden treasure which, rarely gets crowded and provides a real opportunity to take a load off and truly relax. Elafonisi Lagoon is located on the west coast of the Greek island of Crete around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Stay in Ierapetra: The Cretan Villa Hotel is a handsome restored 18th century building, or try apartments like the Big Blue Suites. But most options are traditional apartment complexes such as Petritos Rooms or small houses like Arodamos Sea House. Much of the south-west coast is rocky and inaccessible, with steep cliffs that drop dramatically into the sea and small beaches that form at the end of gorges. Most of the beach is lined with tavernas, cafes and bars, but with easy acces to the city. For those on a smaller budget, have a look at the small and friendly Nostos Hotel which is a few minutes from the main harbour. On a budget? There are of resort hotels in Bali strung out along the coast many are looking a bit dated but there are a few standouts. Our hotel experts have scoured the length and breadth of the island to bring you a collection of Crete's best beach hotels selected on their location, designs, service, and amenities. But it would be a shame to miss out on the excellent tavernas in Panormo. Large rooms offer mountain views or sea views from the large glass windows. Panormos is the first beach resort that you hit east of Rethymnon that has a proper village feel and isnt just an outpost of the city. Agios Nikolaos has four sandy beaches though theyre all a little way out of the city Kitroplateira is the most central, Almiros is the nicest. The pink sands of Elafonisi are one of the main attractions in west Crete, with coachloads arriving every day to bathe in the glorious lagoon-like waters. Elounda is located in east Crete around an hours drive from Heraklion Airport. Small ferry boats make the run over to Spinalonga from both Plaka and Elounda. And theres an ancient Minoan site that youre likely to have to yourself. The KTEL bus station is in the new town, a 10-minute walk from the main harbour see PDF timetables. 5* Minos Beach Art Hotel has 1km of beach access, spacious grounds, and calming minimalist decor. Agia Pelagia is halfway between Bali and Heraklion and is the only real beach resort to the west of the capital, to which it is connected by a regular bus service which takes about 1 hr. The older part of town (Ano Hersonissos or Palia Hersonissos) is set back from the coast and has lots of little family-run tavernas. A lively beach town, the resort of Bali is set around a handful of coves in a scenic bay. Its friendly and authentic if you want to get away from mass tourism then this easternmost part of Crete is a good bet. Although almost every main beach gets busy in July and August, you can usually walk just a few minutes away to find a patch of heaven sans crowds. But at the end of the day, Mexico will always be known as a beach destination - and for good reason. There is a Venetian architrave, Byzantine churches, frescos from the 14th century, and oodles of lush green countryside as a backdrop. Several celebrities (including Brad and Angelina in happier days) have been spotted walking on its sandy shores, this combined with it being a hotspot for European dignitaries just adds to the appeal. It is hardly surprising then that there are a world-class selection of beach hotels to choose from. Ranked as a top Travel Authority in the UK by Agility PR Solutions, Nominated as the best female travel blogger in the Teletext Holiday Awards 2019, British Annual Canada Travel Awards Finalist 2018, Nominated for the Best UK Travel Blog 2018, Cheapflights Travel Blog Awards Nominee 2017, GLOBAL GRASSHOPPER. Essentially, Myrtos has something to offer everyone from a secluded, sandy seafront to a large dose of historical culture. Domes Noruz Chania, Autograph Collection 6. Its super sedate. On the beach itself, there is a tavern that sells local nibbles and drinks as well as sunbeds. Very good. Balos beach Chania Balos is a fantastic location on the northwestern side of Crete, in the region of Chania. Those in search of the original 60s free-spirited vibe will be disappointed (though try nearby Red Beach), but Matala is a fun seaside town and is a good choice for younger couples looking for somewhere lively and photogenic. The main attraction in Stalis (or Stalida) is its 6km golden crescent of beach, and its proximity to party capital Malia (just a 30-minute walk). On the beach: Check out LUX.ME White Palace and Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort for sheer whitewashed bliss right on the beach. Inside the old town: for historic charm check outBozzali Hotel with its whitewashed decor and cute courtyard, whereas Casa Delfino offers a modern take on the traditional Venetian mansion. Its located on the western end of the north coast, withpeaks of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) providing a dramatic backdrop. With the exception of Paleochora, that is. St Nicholas Bay Resort Hotels & Villas is a large 5* complex with direct beach access. Transfer time: 2hrs from Heraklion International airport, 10 minutes from Sitia Public Airport. Youll find the standard Greek beachside fare if you want to have a halftime break, and nestled in its backstreets are a multitude of boutique-style shops selling some handmade, and some not-so-handmade trinkets. A wonderful place to visit and stay in Crete! Agiofarago Beach / Best Beaches in Crete Agiofarago Beach is the perfect beach in Crete if you want to sidestep the crowds. #1 Best Value of 80 Beach Resorts in Crete "Highlights were Excellent, clean sandy beach and lot of sun beds on beach, around pools etc. Triopetra Beach is located on the south of the island around a 2 hour drive from Heraklion airport. Check Paleochora rooms and prices on Booking.com. Anissaras beach http://www.flickr.com/photos/brownieboy27/4986950206/in/set-72157624948245648 Report inappropriate content roseyManchester manchester A few Venetian buildings remain but most of the city is a modern concrete jungle that always seems to be dusty and full of building works that were halted during the crisis. Transfer time: 25 minutes to the main harbour from Chania International airport. Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel Show prices Enter dates to see prices 202 reviews Its a popular day-trip destination and the crowds somewhat marr the incredible natural landscape with its towering rock formations. Did somebody say wine? 2,101 reviews. ; SOUTH: Most of the main beach resorts are on the south coast, busier on the west side and getting quieter the further east you get. Naxos has the best beaches (but little nightlife). A small town located on a small peninsula in southwest Crete, Paleochora is ideal if you want a bit of both. But the main attraction that brings tourists to Heraklion is the nearby ancient Minoan site of Knossos the biggest and most well-known on the island. Bali is roughly halfway between Rethymno and Heraklion there are bus services both but not as frequent as other resorts. Although, shell always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages Paris, her true city of lights. Agia Roumeli: Lots of budget rooms all around the same price point thanks to the proliferation of walkers tryAgia Roumeli Hotel or Gigilos which are both right on the beach. The small city of Sitia is a working port town with a pleasant seafront promenade, a sandy town beach, and a slow lifestyle. Beach bums are better off at Plakias (see below). Some suites have access to a private hot tub on the roof terrave. Most hotels and rooms in Matala are simple and value. It is famous for its never-ending stretch of sand, fabulous sunsets and peaceful atmosphere. Up until fairly recently, Elafonisi was one of Cretes best-kept secrets, sadly social media selfie-lovers got a firm grasp of it, so it can get seriously busy in the high seasons. Cool or what? Perhaps, Domatas unspoiled beauty has been preserved this long because the region has no roads or infrastructures. ". But its also possible to use Plakias as a base for walking and hiking. The beautiful unspoilt Samari Gorge is a major tourist attraction of the island and was created by a small river running through the White Mountains. As with the other northern cities, it has a Venetian Fortress (the Kazarma) and an Archaeological Museum. " The hotel is very relaxing and although it is a bit quiet a night it really is the perfect mix of 5 star luxury during the day with the authenticity of amazing local Greek Tavernas like Zachos . Concur with these, we love Crete. There is the standard selection of resort hotels in the surrounding coastal areas stylish Cretan Malia Park is one of the best, with beachfront access, boho chic decor, and family-friendly facilities. There are two routes to the beach by boat or for the most extreme, there is a path from Chora Sfakion and another from Loutro. What delights visitors the most about the White Mountains is the central and southern part of the Lefka Ori which, due to the high altitude, resembles a lunar landscape and offers visiting hikers a surreal experience of walking on the moon which, is wholly unique to the northern hemisphere. Although the hippies have long since been moved on, and the caves protected and closed to the public, the town retains a laidback feel despite the explosion of tourism here. Grecotel Meli Palace and Kalimera Kriti Resort both have direct beach access. Paleochora is located on a small peninsula with beaches on either side perfect for windsurfing as one of them will always be catching the wind. Outside this, its a large resort town with an excellent (though busy) beach, an unashamedly commercial centre, and a charming old quarter (Old Malia), where youll find traditional houses and tavernas. Development is focused around a small harbour and excellent beach sandy, with shallow child-friendly waters. 9 Theofanus Street, Chania, Crete Island, 731 00. Despite its proximity to larger resorts, the bus service to Sissi is limited, so its better suited to couples looking for a quiet place to stay in Crete or those wanting to explore the wild Agios Ioannis peninsula by car. It feels a little like the end of the known world, and Sfakions are known for their fierce independence and excellent cheese pies. Transfer time: 1hr 30 minutes from Chania airport. PRIVACY POLICY TERMS & CONDITION, Top 26 Unspoilt Places to Visit in Crete for Travel Snobs, Minos Palace Hotel & Suites Adults Only, The Royal Senses Resort Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton, Explore the Mediterranean Sea in a different way with, After a fun-filled day, relax and rejuvenate with, Discover peaceful, uncrowded scenery walking through, Learn about the architectural treasures from around the area and history of the village at, Dont leave without buying a piece of handcrafted pottery as, Find a spot near a bar or taverna along the beach to. S&K Villas near Amyrida has a modern white cubist design and pool. There are some quieter beaches in the area if youre up for a bit of scrambling, and things calm down in the evening once the coaches have packed up for the day. Kalamaki is a relatively new town in Crete, it has more of a purpose-built feel to it. Plakias is one of the nicest small resorts on Crete. ); Crete is a large island the fifth largest in the Mediterranean and you can find whatever youre looking for in each region. After a day at the (pebble) beach, you can step out in your Sunday best and pace up and down the walkway paralleling the seafront whilst wondering if you have time to look at the menu before you are accosted by the occupants (Im joking, they are lovely and generally friendly more than pushy). 18. . Agree a time with him and he'll come back for you later. You may have to head to the south coast when the wind is blowing. My must-do highlights of Falassarna Experience a paragliding ride overlooking the coast to admire the island from a different perspective. Smart rooms and suites have modern furnishings, all the modern gadgetry, balconies, and some have private pools. There are only a few places to stay in Plaka try Athina Villas, Plaka Beach Cottages, and Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa. per night. If it tickles your fancy there is a naturist beach off to the east. Visitors to the area might be shocked to find that it retains its snowcaps until the middle of spring and offers innumerable hiking opportunities from the Samaria Gorge to the Askifou plateau to Mount Ida herself. A classy, modern hotel. #3 in Best Resorts in Crete Tripadvisor (921) 1 critic awards 5.0-star Hotel Class Free WiFi Overview Reviews Deals Rooms Kalimera Kriti Hotel Village Resort is a 5 star hotel located. The main village is set 1km back from the beach and is a popular area for villas and expats. Paleochora is the main resort town on the south-west coast. GBP $ USD EUR $ AUD $ CAD. Due to the presence of cold spring water streams, the seawater can be cold, even in summer but the beach itself is stunning. 26. Theres a wide selection of accommodation, easy transport links, a short airport transfer, and child-friendly shallow waters. But there are plenty of returners from those days its warm seas, great views, and some of the best fishing in Greece make it particularly popular with expats. Its a year-round Greek town that attracts tourists and expats, rather than a purpose-built tourist town. Oceanview Designer Beach House (4 guests): $300/night. The hotel is all-inclusive but the food was of excellent quality." Breakfast included 2022 4. Located 80km southwest of the town of Heraklion, it is much more secluded than your average beach, since it's just off the edge of (and sheltered by) a large gorge. Their wild and remote location and lack of road access have helped to preserve their beauty. Sissi is a small resort thats on the coast between Malia and Plaka, known for its pretty harbour and seafood tavernas. It's quiet not only because the village is quiet and the people who go there are quiet, but because it's so big: 1.3 km long, and very wide, so that even in high season you can feel that you've got it almost to yourself. Transfer time: 1hr 40 minutes from Chania International airport. And its one of the warmest places in the Mediterranean in winter. Karavostasi Beach 432 Beaches By selsfield2003 Worth the walk ( or the ride on the mini train) Great beach - lovely clear water and 2 amazing tavernas. Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Chania. It has a tranquil fishing village vibe, although the heart of the village does feel a bit commercialised, and there are some small beaches a short walk away (the main one is Boufos). Stay in Makrigialos: White Pearl Apartments are right on the beach. There are lots of lovely places to stay in Rethymnon. The further out, the quieter it gets. However, if you would like to sit outside one of its handful of tavernas with a carafe of the local red and a plate of vine leaves then this is the quiet place to visit in Crete for you!